Lymphedema is a medical condition which results in swelling of a body part, or parts, when the lymphatic vessels and/or lymph nodes are damaged, inadequate or nonfunctional. There are many causes, but the most common is cancer treatment.

Untreated lymphedema is progressive and leads to infection, disfigurement, disability and in some cases even death. The prognosis for the patient is far worse and treatment more costly when the disease is not identified and treated in the earlier stages.

The Lymphedema Treatment Act

This bill, currently in Congress, would provide the medically recommended protocols used in the treatment and management of lymphedema. Specific goals of the bill are:

• to provide diagnosis and treatment of individuals with and at risk for lymphedema according to current medical treatment standards, including manual lymph drainage, compression bandages, garments, devices, and exercise;
• to provide for lymphedema patient education in the procedures for self-treatment so as to transfer the treatment from the clinic to the home setting;
• to encourage patient self-treatment plan adherence by providing necessary medical supplies for use at home;
• to reduce total healthcare costs through avoidance of periodic infections, pain and disabilities resulting from this medical condition.

We need your help!

Millions of Americans with lymphedema should not be denied the treatment of coverage they desperately need and deserve. We have no paid lobbyists; our cause is entirely grassroots and patient driven.

For more information and to learn the simple ways you can support passage of this bill, please visit our website or email us at:

www.LymphedemaTreatmentAct.org

Proud supporters of the Lymphedema Treatment Act